I have a long way to go...

I have a long way to go...

I know my dreams are too big. I know my vision is too far reaching. I know my ideas are impossible. I know my thoughts don’t make sense to everyone. I know it would be easier to get a job.

But I have too much on the line.

First, I have four kids that look up to me (sometimes, anyway). They deserve to see what it looks like for someone to follow a vision that God has put into his or her head. They deserve to see the struggles, the pain, the sleepless nights, the anxiety, the tension... and they deserve to see the celebrations, the joy, and the fulfillment that comes with chasing dreams.

But also...

I have to think about the one that came before. My dad built his business from nothing. And he did it the way a business should be built: with hard work, determination, sleepiness nights and a work ethic that refuses to lose. He built it because it had to be done. He built it for us. But what he probably didn’t know is that he was teaching me all the things I hope and pray that I can teach my kids as well. He was building it for the ones that came after.

My brother is carrying on the family business while this black sheep went the other direction. I also owe it to him. My brother stepped up where I stepped out. He continues to work every day to strengthen and grow the business. He continues to provide for his family while also providing jobs. And what he probably doesn’t know is that he also continues to be an inspiration for me and my family (shame on me for not telling him this, but I’ll remedy that today).

The point is this... when you’re given a vision, you MUST chase it. You must pursue it with the passion of a starving lion. You must hunger to fulfill that vision more than you hunger for food.

You owe it to the ones that came before and you owe it to the ones that are coming after.

It’s YOUR vision. It was given to YOU. I can’t do it. No one else can do it. It’s for YOU to do.

Chase that vision and don’t EVER quit.